Bullet-proof holster and ballistic pouch

ABSTRACT

The bullet resistant holster for handguns or a protective sleeve for a rifle, comprised of a compartment for holding the handgun or a tube over the muzzle of a rifle, means for securing the handgun within the compartment or straps to secure the tube over the end of a rifle, a bullet blocking material that will absorb and contain the energy of a bullet and any particles that result, by means of tension straps or sewing of the bullet blocking material into the compartment or tube, in such a way as to insure that the bullet blocking material is in tension during the process of absorbing the energy from a bullet, discharged from a handgun, with the handgun in the holster or while removing the handgun from the holster or placing the handgun back into the holster or with the tube over the end of the rifle.

This Application is a continuation of and claims priority to PCT Application PCT/US2010/002460, entitled “Bullet-Proof Holster and Ballistic Pouch”, filed on 11 Sep. 2010; and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/276,302, entitled “Bullet-Proof Holster and Ballistic Pouch” filed on 11 Sep. 2009.

FIELD OF USE

The present invention relates to a holster for use by law enforcement personnel, private citizens or the military, and more particularly, to protect the wearer and others from an inadvertent discharge of the firearm.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

While some form of safety on a firearm is advocated by the majority of firearms owners, the number and type of safeties incorporated in the design of the firearm has been a source of controversy. Safety mechanisms add complexity to the weapon and increase the chances of a mechanical failure either allowing an accidental discharge or preventing an intentional firing of the weapon. Also, manual safeties slow the process of readying the weapon as the user must consciously de-activate that safety.

Handgun safety is a national concern, since “the right to bear arms” is guaranteed by the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. In many other countries, where there is a more limited right for civilians to bear arms, we are seeing that with the increase in global terrorism, the terrorists always find a way to secure weapons while innocent civilians may be left defenseless. Various solutions have been proposed in the prior art to make it safer to carry a handgun.

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/110,064 (Camp) discloses a ballistic resistant gun case that facilitates safe handling of a gun to be contained therein. The gun case includes a pair of side walls having at least one of the side walls being formed with a ballistic resistant layer and one of the side walls being formed with a target indicia on an outer side thereof. During handling of the gun, the gun muzzle is held in close proximity to and pointed toward the target indicia such that an accidentally discharged bullet from the gun during handling will impact the ballistic resistant layer to prevent or minimize bodily injury or property damage.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,829,653 (Kaiser) discloses a bullet-resistant belt back with neck strap attachment for use by law enforcement officials or civilians for handgun concealment and torso protection. The device includes an upper compartment and a lower compartment. The compartments are foldably connected at one end and attached by Velcro® or a similar securing method at another end. Inserts composed of Kevlar® or other bullet-resistant material are contained within interior sections of both compartments. The upper compartment further includes a metal trauma plate to protect the chest of the wearer. When opened, the belt pack reveals a handgun holster attached to the lower compartment and areas along the upper compartment for identification, such as police badges. A neck strap coupled to upper compartment enables the device to serve as a bullet-resistant vest for the wearer.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,149,203 (Sacks) discloses a bullet-proof bag or similar portable container having a wall or walls surrounding an internal space accessible through an opening in the bag. The wall or walls are lined with one or more layers of high tensile strength and high stretch resistance material such as to be capable of resisting penetration by a bullet. A single multi-layer sheet is used to form the wall or walls by folding the sheet at the corners, thereby avoiding joins that would be vulnerable to penetration. The penetration resistant material is backed up by one or more layers of an impact absorbing material, such as polycarbonate sheet material and foamed plastics material. The layers of penetration resistance material and impact absorbing material are separately formed as removable inserts that are used to line the bag.

PCT Application No. PCT/GB1992/000827 (Sacks) discloses various forms of bullet resistant holsters for handguns and a protective sleeve for a rifle but does not disclose how to secure the ballistic material in place such that the protective material will absorb the energy from a handgun bullet or a rifle bullet. This is important because without the definition of the means of securing the ballistic material, when the bullet strikes the ballistic material, the bullet and the ballistic material will move at a speed close to the speed of the bullet with risk of significant injury occurring to anyone that this combined projectile strikes.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,498,276 (Wagner et al.) entitled “Advanced Body Armor Utilizing Shear Thickening Fluids” discloses an armor composite material which contains a fabric that is impregnated with shear thickening fluid. This invention offers a ballistic resistant material that is more flexible and less bulky than comparable, conventional ballistic fabric. The material in the alternative can be puncture resistant. The material offers superior ballistic performance and puncture resistance compared to conventional ballistic fabric-based materials of equal thickness. The material can be applied to applications requiring armor that is compact or flexible, such as body armor, protective clothing and flexible protective devices and shields, and stab resistant clothing and devices.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,649,426 (Gates) discloses a protective dilatants armor material for protection of personnel from high velocity projectile impact. Such protective material comprises a mixture of a relatively fluid material and suspended medium therein resistant to radiant energy or particles (shrapnel and bullet) penetration.

U.S. Provisional Application No. is 61/276,302, entitled “Bullet-Proof Holster and Ballistic Pouch” (Herman J. Novak), provides a discrete protective bullet-resistant apparatus that is compatible for many different shapes and sizes of firearms and can be used by undercover police officers, off-duty police officers, and civilians, a bullet-proof holster that lessens the dangers from an inadvertent discharge of the firearm.

The breathability of a series of ballistic fabrics and shear thickening fluid-treated ballistic fabrics was evaluated in “Breathability Characterization of Ballistic Fabrics, Including Shear Thickening Fluid-Treated Fabrics,” by Wai K. Chin and Eric D. Wetzel, “ARL-TR-4392”, March 2008. Breathability was characterized using measurements of water vapor transport rate through fabric samples. The results show that uncoated ballistic fabrics offer good breathability that is only slightly lower than conventional military outer garments. Ballistic fabrics treated with shear thickening fluid show a slight decrease in breathability, as compared with uncoated fabrics. Ballistic fabrics with continuous polymer coatings, however, exhibit very low water vapor transport rates. These results indicate that fabrics treated with shear thickening fluid introduce no significant penalty in breathability relative to conventional, uncoated ballistic fabrics.

Civilians and undercover officers are faced with the problem of properly concealing a firearm. Many undercover officers carry the firearm in a pocket, such as a side trousers pocket. Carrying the firearm in a trousers pocket, however, creates difficulties in rapidly accessing the gun. When an officer is in a seated position, the gun cannot be readily removed from the pocket. Alternatively, if the free hand of the officer is engaged, it may be difficult to remove the firearm from the pocket with the opposite hand. In such situations, the officer may be powerless to use the firearm against the assailant. An additional problem caused by carrying the firearm in a trousers pocket is that the gun tends to wear the material of the pocket, frequently forming holes in the bottom of the pocket.

Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide an overall safety enhancing apparatus for use by law enforcement personnel and civilian personnel which combines the beneficial aspects of the prior art, while overcoming the dangers of an accidental discharge. Such a safety enhancing apparatus would enable a law enforcement officer to conceal a weapon so that it is readily accessible for use during an emergency situation.

When a handgun is carried in a concealed, belly-band holster, there is always a concern that the firearm will discharge or misfire inadvertently and injure someone. Similarly, there is a concern about removing misfired bullets from a handgun chamber in a hot firearm.

What is needed is a device that will protect the individual from harm during accidental discharge of a firearm. This includes the accidental discharge of the firearm while wearing it in a holster or the discharge of a bullet or bullet fragments or the explosion of a jammed bullet in a hot firearm whether that firearm is a handgun a rifle or a shotgun.

What is needed is a bullet resistant holster that is light-in-weight, inexpensive to produce, smaller in size and compatible with existing holsters, and only has the ballistic-resistant properties where necessary. A protective tube for a rifle is required as well.

It is therefore a primary object of the bullet resistant holster of the present invention to provide a protective firearm holster device, which lessens the dangers from an inadvertent discharge of the firearm.

It is another object of the bullet resistant holster of the present invention to provide discrete protective bullet resistant apparatus that is compatible for many different shapes and sizes of firearms and can be used by law enforcement, undercover police officers, off-duty police officers, the military, collectors, and civilians.

Yet another object of the bullet resistant holster of the present invention is to provide protective bullet resistant apparatus which will absorb and contain an errant round discharged from the firearm while the firearm is disposed therein.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

These and other objects of the invention, which shall be hereafter apparent, are achieved by the bullet resistant holster and the rifle tube of the present invention.

The bullet resistant holster of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention is made in part of a high-tensile strength fabric such as Kevlar®, Spectra®, or Dyneema®, or Kevlar, impregnated with shear thickening fluid, with or without a layer of ceramic material wrapped in high tensile strength fabric, placed in such a way as to absorb and contain the bullet as well as particles generated from a bullet being discharged from a firearm or after a discharged bullet strikes ceramic material, wrapped in the high tensile strength fabric. This can only be achieved by keeping the high-tensile strength fabric in tension as the bullet, or particles, strike the fabric. The bullet resistant holster comprises a sleeve for holding the firearm, means for securing the firearm within the sleeve, and a bullet blocker for absorbing and containing a single bullet and any bullet particles from the single bullet inadvertently discharged. Several types of bullet blockers are deployed. Preferably the bullet blocker is made of multiple layers of bullet-resistant fabric, attached to the holster, such that the bullet-resistant fabric is in tension during the bullet strike. This can be done by means of straps sewn to the bullet-resistant fabric and then sewn to the holster or by sewing the bullet-resistant fabric directly to the inside surface of the holster.

Another type of bullet resistant holster is made, in part, of a high-tensile strength fabric such as Kevlar®, Spectra®, or Dyneema®, placed in such a way as to absorb and contain the bullet as well as particles generated from a bullet explosion inside a firearm. The bullet resistant holster comprises a sleeve for holding the firearm, means for securing the firearm within the sleeve, and a bullet blocker for absorbing and containing a single bullet and any bullet particles from the single bullet inadvertently discharged.

Several types of bullet blockers are deployed. Preferably the bullet blocker is made of multiple layers of bullet resistant fabric. The preferred type of bullet-blocker is a multiplicity of layers of bullet resistant material, held in tension, by means of straps, sewn to the bullet resistant material and also sewn to the holster or by sewing the bullet resistant material to the inside of the holster, in such a way as to keep the bullet-resistant material in tension, during the process of stopping the bullet or the particles from a bullet striking the ceramics encased in the high tensile strength fabric.

Another type of bullet blocker is fabric that is impregnated with shear thickening fluid. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the bullet blocker is Kevlar and the shear thickening fluid impregnates the Kevlar. In another preferred embodiment, the inside and outside cloth of the holster is impregnated with shear thickening fluid. This makes the holster material better able to contain the Kevlar during a shot. The Kevlar material enhanced with the shear thickening fluid is flexible, has low bulk, is lightweight, and is protective.

Still, another type of bullet-blocker is made of a shaped ceramic material, and may be encased in metal and covered with high-tensile strength fabric. The high tensile strength fabric is placed in such a way relative to the discharge chamber of the firearm as to catch particles generated from a bullet explosion inside the firearm.

The ballistic-resistant fabric is installed in such a way as to allow penetration of projectiles through the first few layers of bullet resistant fabric while such particles are moving at high velocity, catching the particles after they hit the ceramic and break up into smaller, lower velocity particles.

Another type of bullet resistant holster of the present invention has a pouch, containing bullet resistant material, with or without ceramics placed either inside or outside of a standard, non-bullet resistant holster causing it to become bullet resistant because the bullet resistant material is kept in tension, as an inadvertent discharge releases a high velocity bullet into the protected holster. It is to be understood that the term “firearm” as used herein, includes not only pistols, handguns, and small arms, but also shotguns, long guns, and rifles.

For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference is made to the following detailed description and accompanying drawings in which the presently preferred embodiments of the invention are shown by way of example. As the invention may be embodied in many forms without departing from spirit of essential characteristics thereof, it is expressly understood that the drawings are for purposes of illustration and description only, and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. Throughout the description, like reference numbers refer to the same component throughout the several views.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D disclose a first preferred embodiment of the ballistic pouch of the present invention, the ballistic pouch being used with a conventional holster, the ballistic pouch being mounted internally into a conventional holster.

FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D disclose a second preferred embodiment of the ballistic pouch and holster of the present invention, the ballistic pouch being mounted externally onto a conventional holster.

FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D disclose a first preferred embodiment of the bullet-proof holster of the present invention, the bullet-proof holster being used with a belly-band configuration for mounting on around the waist of the wearer.

FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, and 4E disclose a second preferred embodiment of the bullet-proof holster of the present invention, the bullet-proof holster being kept in a pocket of the person using the firearm.

FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C disclose a third preferred embodiment of the bullet-proof holster of the present invention, the bullet-proof holster being kept in a purse of the person using the firearm.

FIG. 6 discloses a fourth preferred embodiment of the bullet-proof holster of the present invention, the bullet-proof holster being used preferably in shooting ranges and protects the person using the firearm from an exploding gun or jammed bullet; and DETAIL A discloses a bullet blocker layer.

FIGS. 7A and 7B disclose a preferred embodiment for making the bullet blocker, preferably of small ceramic balls packed tightly together onto a bullet resistant material by an epoxy or similar material.

FIG. 8A discloses a preferred embodiment of the bullet blocker of the present invention, the bullet blocker being a ceramic material and said bullet blocker having a generally circular cross-section and receiving a bullet in the center of the ceramic and a second bullet off center; and FIG. 8B discloses a preferred embodiment of the bullet blocker of the present invention, the bullet blocker being a ceramic material and said bullet blocker having a generally oval cross-section and receiving a bullet in the center of the ceramic and a second bullet off center.

FIG. 9A discloses a preferred embodiment of the bullet blocker of the present invention, the bullet blocker being a processed metal material, preferably hardened steel, and said bullet blocker having a generally circular cross-section and receiving a bullet in the center of the processed metal material; and FIG. 9B discloses a preferred embodiment of the bullet blocker of the present invention, the bullet blocker being a processed metal material, preferably hardened steel, and said bullet blocker having a generally oval cross-section and receiving a bullet off center of the processed metal material.

FIG. 10A discloses a preferred embodiment of the bullet blocker of the present invention, the bullet blocker being a ceramic reinforced with processed metal material, preferably hardened steel, and said bullet blocker having a generally circular cross-section and receiving a bullet passing through the center of the ceramic and then the center of the processed metal material; and FIG. 10B discloses a preferred embodiment of the bullet blocker of the present invention, the bullet blocker being a ceramic reinforced with processed metal material, preferably hardened steel, and said bullet blocker having a generally oval cross-section and receiving a bullet passing through the center of the ceramic and then the center of the processed metal material.

FIG. 11 discloses a ceramic or other super-hardened material sewn within multiple layers of yet another preferred embodiment of the bullet blocker of the present invention.

FIGS. 12A, 12B, and 12C disclose yet another preferred embodiment of a top, side, and front cutaway views, respectively, of a bullet blocker of the present invention, the bullet blocker having a plurality of ceramic balls sewn under a top layer of multiple layers of bullet-proof material.

FIGS. 13A discloses still another preferred embodiment of a perspective view of a bullet blocker of the present invention, Kevlar®-wrapped ceramics being sandwiched between Kevlar layers, FIGS. 13B and 13C disclosing top exploded views and cutaway side views of the bullet blocker of FIG. 13A.

FIG. 14 discloses a perspective view of yet still another preferred embodiment of a bullet blocker of the present invention, the bullet blocker comprising a plurality of packages of bullet-proof material which include bullet-proof ceramics, the packages being disposed in multiple layers of bullet-blocker material.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 1A through 1D (an internal pouch) and FIGS. 2A through 2D (external pouch), two different preferred embodiments of the bullet-proof ballistic pouch of the present invention are disclosed. FIGS. 1A through 1D disclose the ballistic pouch being mounted internally into a conventional holster 10; and FIGS. 2A through 2D disclose the ballistic pouch being mounted externally onto the conventional holster 10. In both examples, the high tensile strength material with the optional ceramics are built into the holster 10, in such a way as to insure that the high tensile strength material is in tension during the time the bullet is being caught. This can be done by sewing tension straps to the high tensile strength material and sewing them to the holster 10, or by just sewing the Kevlar to the holster material. High tensile strength sewing thread should be used, such as Tenara or many sewing lines of standard high strength standard sewing thread.

FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C disclose a first preferred embodiment of the ballistic pouch of the present invention, the ballistic pouch being used with a conventional holster, the ballistic pouch being mounted internally into a conventional holster. Referring now to FIG. 1D, a U-shaped insert 60 housing a multiplicity of optional small ceramic spheres 68 are tightly packed together and secured to a bullet-resistant material. A pair of straps 62 secured to the bullet-resistant material of the insert 60 extending upwardly, and having hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g.—Velcro®) secured to the inside and outside surfaces thereof. This U-shaped insert 60 is placed inside of a U-shaped covering 70 having mating hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g.—Velcro®) secured to the inside and outside surfaces of a pair of straps 72, one strap being disposed on each side of the covering 70. The combination of the insert 60 and the covering 70 serve as a bullet blocker 50. This bullet blocker 50 is inserted into a holster 10 already owned by the user. The straps 62 and 72 are then secured through a pair of belt slots 14 on the holster 10.

FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D disclose a second preferred embodiment of the ballistic pouch and holster of the present invention, the ballistic pouch being mounted externally onto a conventional holster. The external pouch configuration of FIG. 2D deploys any of a variety of bullet blockers. In one preferred embodiment, the insert 160 of FIG. 2C is made of a bullet resistant material, such as Kevlar, and the insert is installed into the bullet resistant pouch 150. In a second preferred embodiment, the bullet-proof insert 160 also includes a cylindrical-shaped reinforcement of bullet-resistant material 172, such as Kevlar, for improved protection. In a third preferred embodiment, the cylindrical-shaped reinforcement of bullet-resistant material 172 positioned in the bullet-proof insert 160 also includes a multiplicity of tightly packed ceramic spheres 170 and secured to the bullet-resistant material 172. For all three embodiments, the insert is placed inside the bullet-resistant pouch 150 and secured thereto with the tension straps of the insert 162. FIG. 2D discloses the holster that the person using the firearm already owns. The holster pouch 150 has hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g.—Velcro®) disposed on a plurality of upwardly extending straps secured to the inside and outside surfaces of the holster 10 through the belt slots 14, the hook-and-loop fasteners being secured to each other.

The bullet-proof holster depicted in FIGS. 1A to 1D and 2A to 2C comprise the bullet blocker and the holster of the present invention. The bullet resistant holster has an unprotected position and a safe position. In the safe position, the bullet blocker is secured to the holster, either externally or internally to the holster, with tension straps, and will absorb and contain an inadvertent discharge of a single bullet and any bullet particles from the single bullet. In the unprotected position, the bullet blocker is removed from the holster.

Referring now to FIGS. 3A to 3D, we see the first preferred embodiment of the bullet resistant holster 210 of the present invention. The bullet resistant holster 210 is used with a belly-band 270 or chest band configuration (not shown) for mounting about the waist or chest of the wearer. The bullet resistant holster 210 comprises a sleeve 215, and a pouch serving as a bullet blocker 248. The sleeve 215 has an opening 260 extending there through for the waist or chest strap. The sleeve 215 may be a sheet of material, folded back unto itself and stitched securely at two corners. The sleeve 215 further includes a strap 220, extending upwardly, said strap 220 having hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g.—Velcro®) on the inner surface, the strap 220 mating with hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g.—Velcro®) on the opposite side of the sleeve 215 (see FIG. 3D). The bullet blocker 248 of choice, depicted in FIG. 3A is made of multiple layers of bullet-resistant fabric, preferably Kevlar. A multiplicity of small ceramics tightly packed and attached securely to a bullet-resistant material by an epoxy, or similar material. In one preferred embodiment, the pouch 248 of FIG. 3A is made of a bullet resistant material, such as Kevlar, and the insert is installed into the bullet resistant pouch 248. In a second preferred embodiment, the bullet-proof insert 160 also includes a cylindrical-shaped reinforcement of bullet-resistant material 272, such as Kevlar, for improved protection. In a third preferred embodiment, the cylindrical-shaped reinforcement of bullet-resistant material 272 positioned in the bullet-proof pouch 248 also includes a multiplicity of tightly packed ceramic spheres 276 and secured to the bullet-resistant material 272.

The bullet resistant holster 210, a pouch 248 and a tension strap 220 connecting the bullet resistant holster 210 to the pouch 248 comprise the firearm-carrying device of the present invention. The firearm-carrying device has an unprotected position and a safe position. In the unprotected position, the pouch 248 is disposed within the sleeve 215 abutting the discharge chamber of the firearm 20. In the safe position, the pouch 248 abuts the discharge chamber of the firearm 20 and is secured to the holster 210.

FIGS. 4A through 4E disclose a second preferred embodiment of the bullet resistant holster 310 of the present invention. The bullet resistant holster 310 is for keeping in a pocket of the person using the firearm 20. The pocket holster 310 comprises a sleeve 335 for holding the firearm 20 and a bullet blocker 360. The bullet blocker 360 is depicted in FIG. 4B and the sleeve 335 is depicted in FIG. 4C. The bullet blocker 310, of choice, is a pouch comprised of a multiplicity of small ceramic spheres 370, tightly packed and attached securely to a bullet-resistant material 372 by an epoxy, or similar material. The tension strap configuration for the pocket holster 310 comprises the bullet blocker insert 348 and tension straps 338 sewn into the pocket holster sleeve 335, in such a way as to insure that the high tensile strength insert 348 is in tension when struck by a bullet and a strap 341 that is normal to the band, extending upwardly, having hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g.—Velcro®) on the inner surface of the longer strap, and having hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g.—Velcro®) on the outer surface of the shorter strap to secure the firearm 20 into the holster 310.

FIGS. 5A through 5C disclose a third preferred embodiment of the bullet-proof holster 410 of the present invention. The bullet-proof holster 410 is for keeping in a purse of the person using the firearm 20. The purse holster 410 comprises a sleeve 420 for holding the firearm 20 and a bullet blocker 430. The bullet blocker 430, of choice, is the pouch depicted in FIG. 4B, which is comprised of a multiplicity of small ceramic spheres 450, tightly packed and attached securely to a bullet-resistant material 445 by an epoxy, or similar material. The sleeve 420 is depicted in FIG. 4C, and is to be carried inside the purse of the user.

FIG. 6 discloses a fourth preferred embodiment of the bullet resistant holster 510 of the present invention. The bullet resistant holster 510 is used preferably at shooting ranges and similar types of applications. The bullet resistant holster 510 protects the person using the firearm (not shown) from an exploding gun or jammed bullet. The bullet blocker has sufficient strength to absorb and contain an inadvertent discharge from a jammed bullet's explosion or to absorb and contain an inadvertent discharge of a single bullet and any bullet particles from the single bullet. The high tensile strength material is sewn into the range pouch in such a way as to insure that it is under tension during the process of stopping the bullet or fragments, of the gun, in an explosion. The bullet resistant fabric is positioned in such a way relative to the firearm as to catch particles generated from a bullet explosion inside the firearm.

In one preferred embodiment, a pouch 540 of DETAIL “A” is made of a bullet resistant material, such as Kevlar, and the insert is sewn into the shooting range case 510 at the discharge chamber of the firearm and other sites where the firearm can cause damage. In a second preferred embodiment, the bullet-proof pouch 540 also includes a cylindrical-shaped reinforcement of bullet-resistant material 560, such as Kevlar, for improved protection. In a third preferred embodiment, the cylindrical-shaped reinforcement of bullet-resistant material 560 positioned in the bullet-proof pouch 540 also includes a multiplicity of tightly packed ceramic spheres 565 and secured to the Kevlar insert 560.

The bullet blocker may be made of an optional shaped ceramic material, and encased in metal and covered with high-tensile strength fabric. The high tensile strength fabric is placed in such a way relative to the discharge chamber of the firearm as to catch particles generated from a bullet explosion inside the firearm.

Several types of bullet blockers may be deployed. Preferably, the bullet blocker is made of multiple layers of bullet-resistant fabric.

Then, a multiplicity of small ceramics 650, tightly packed and attached securely to a bullet-resistant material 660 by an epoxy, or similar material, as depicted in FIGS. 7A and 7B. In FIG. 7B, 0.1 inch to 0.5 inch diameter small ceramic spheres are secured together with epoxy, making the assembly of ceramic spheres moldable, acting like billiard balls (see FIG. 7A), redirection the force of impact from the bullet by 90°.

FIG. 8A discloses a first preferred embodiment of the bullet blocker 710 of the present invention, the bullet blocker being a hardened material, such as a ceramic, said bullet blocker 710 having a generally circular cross-section and receiving a first bullet “a” in the center of the ceramic and a second bullet “b” off center. FIG. 8B discloses a second preferred embodiment of the bullet blocker 720 of the present invention, the bullet blocker 720 being a hardened material, such as a ceramic, and said bullet blocker 720 having a generally oval cross-section and receiving a first bullet “c” near the center of the ceramic and a second bullet “d” off center.

This is a single unit with two similar side panels, securely attached together to form a pocket. The elongated bullet blocker of FIG. 8B is positioned at the sealed end of the ballistic holster, abutting the discharge chamber of the firearm while the firearm is positioned in the ballistic holster, so that the bullet blocker will receive and deflect any inadvertent discharge or explosion of the loaded firearm and any particles therefrom. Strips of high tensile strength bullet-resistant fabric are strategically placed throughout the holster to absorb particle fragments ricocheting from the bullet blocker. The firearm is retained in the holster by a pair of snap fasteners which enable easy access thereto.

FIG. 9A discloses a third preferred embodiment of the bullet blocker 730 of the present invention, the bullet blocker 730 being a hardened material, such as a hardened steel, said bullet blocker 730 having a generally circular cross-section and receiving a bullet in the center of the processed metal material. FIG. 9B discloses a fourth preferred embodiment of the bullet blocker 735 of the present invention, the bullet blocker 735 being a hardened material, such as a hardened steel, and said bullet blocker 735 having a generally oval cross-section and receiving a bullet off center.

FIG. 10A discloses a fifth preferred embodiment of the bullet blockers (750 and 755) of the present invention, the bullet blockers (750 and 755) being a ceramic reinforced with processed metal material, preferably hardened steel, and said bullet blockers (750 and 755) having a generally circular cross-section and receiving a bullet passing through the center of the ceramic and then the center of the processed metal material. FIG. 10B discloses a sixth preferred embodiment of the bullet blockers (760 and 765) of the present invention, the bullet blockers (760 and 765) being a ceramic reinforced with processed metal material, preferably hardened steel, and said bullet blockers (760 and 765) having a generally oval cross-section and receiving a bullet passing through the center of the ceramic and then the center of the processed metal material.

When the bullet blocker may be a shaped ceramic or metal, or their combination, as depicted in FIGS. 8A and 8B, 9A and 9B, and 10A and 10B, the shape of the bullet blocker is critical in the containment of the bullet and bullet and bullet fragments. The catching layer must have sufficient depth to receive the speeding projectile and contain within the ballistic holster of the present invention the bullet, the bullet fragments, and any fragments from the catching layer. This must be true whether the bullet strikes the center of the catching layer or is off center. The bullet blocker of the present invention may be a single layer structure of ceramic or a processed metal.

However, in the preferred embodiment, modern technical armors generally comprise a multi-layer system including a hard surface layer over a catching layer. Additional catching layers may be added behind the first catching layer for added protection where required. Technical ceramics generally form the hard layer and make up the first armor surface which the bullet impacts. Ceramics contemplated for use in the present invention include but are not limited to: aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, aluminum nitride, boron carbide, and titanium diboride. The catching layer may be a technical ceramic such as those previously exemplified compounded with a metal binder such as aluminum, titanium, copper, beryllium or the like or a processed metal, such as steel or a shear thickening fluid.

The ceramic, stand alone or with steel, are one version of what will work in the bullet proof holster. Ceramic balls, between 0.1 inch to 0.5 inch diameter (are held together with a hard epoxy) will work as a bullet blocker. Exemplary ceramic shaped surfaces include cylinders, spheres, cubes, cones, truncated cones, rectangular prisms, ellipsoids, pyramids, polyhedrons, and any combination of these. Any hard material, like ceramics, will work. Ceramics can be eliminated if more Kevlar® is used. Kevlar®, with shear thickening fluid (STF) will also be able to replace the ceramics.

FIG. 11 discloses another preferred embodiment of bullet blocker 810 for use with the bullet-proof holster and ballistic pouch of the present invention. The bullet blocker 810 comprises ceramic 824 or other super-hardened material sewn within multiple layers 820 of a bullet resistant material, the bullet blocker 810 abutting the discharge chamber of the firearm (not shown).

FIGS. 12A, 12B, and 12C disclose still yet another preferred embodiment of a top, side, and front cutaway views, respectively, of a bullet blocker 910 for use in the present invention. The bullet blocker 910 has a plurality of ceramic balls 928 sewn into a sewn pocket 925 under a top layer 915 of multiple layers of bullet-proof material 920.

FIG. 13A discloses still a perspective view another preferred embodiment of a bullet blocker 950 of the present invention, Kevlar®-wrapped ceramics 960 are sandwiched between Kevlar layers 965, FIGS. 13B and 13C disclosing top exploded views and cutaway side views of the bullet blocker of FIG. 13A.

FIG. 14 discloses a perspective view of yet another preferred embodiment of a bullet blocker 970 for use in the present invention. The bullet blocker 970 preferably comprises a plurality of packages 972 of bullet-proof material which include bullet-proof ceramics, the packages being disposed in multiple layers 975 of bullet-blocker material.

The bullet blocker is made from a shaped ceramic, is encased in metal and covered in ballistic fabric. The ballistic fabric is installed in such a way as to allow penetration of projectiles through the first few layers of fabric while such particles are moving at high velocity, catching the particles after they hit the ceramic and break up into smaller, lower velocity particles. If a misfired firearm explodes and that firearm is in the case, ceramics and high strength fabric contain the particles. If a concealed firearm discharges during wearing or movement, the bullet-proof ballistic holster or pouch will retain the charge and any fragments.

The invention provides personal protection against the inadvertent discharge or explosion of a loaded firearm. A handgun, with a misfired bullet, can be placed in the bullet-proof holster of the present invention until the handgun cools and the bullet can be removed safely from the firearm.

The bullet resistant holster of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention is made in part of a high tensile strength fabric such as Kevlar®, Spectra®, or Dyneema®, placed in such a way as to absorb and contain particles generated from a bullet explosion inside a firearm. This is done by sewing the bullet blocker Kevlar, into the holster in such a way as to insure that it is under tension during the process of stopping the bullet or metal particles. The bullet resistant holster comprises a sleeve for holding the firearm, means for securing the firearm within the sleeve, and a bullet blocker for absorbing and containing a single bullet and any bullet particles from the single bullet inadvertently discharged. Other bullet-resistant fabrics include Spectra® and Dyneema® or Kevlar® with impregnated a shear thickening fluid or Kevlar with a bladder filled with a shear thickening fluid. The ballistic-resistant materials comprise multiple layers of tightly-woven, ballistic-resistant fabric or cloth, such as Kevlar® ballistic fabric. Other types of high-strength, synthetic fibers may be used to make the ballistic fabric, including: glass fibers, carbon/graphite fibers, aramid fibers (such as Kevlar®, Twaron®, Technora®), para-aramid fibers, high and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fibers (such as Spectra®, or Dynema®). Ultra-high strength, steel filaments can also be woven into ballistic fabric or Kevlar®, or other high tensile fabric with a shear thickening fluid.

Another type of bullet blocker is fabric that is impregnated with shear thickening fluid. This method is discussed at length in U.S. Pat. No. 7,498,276 (Wagner et al.) and U.S. Pat. No. 3,649,426 (Gates). The fabric materials and articles formed therefrom comprising high strength, high modulus polymeric fibers or yarns impregnated with a fluid, composed of particles suspended in a solvent, which undergo a shear-thickening transition such that the coefficient of friction between the fibers or yarns is increased during an impact event. The fabrics comprising high tenacity fibers are incorporated as an important element in containment structures used to dissipate the kinetic energy of moving objects and thereby prevent passage of those moving objects through such containment structures to a person to be protected against direct contact and damage by such moving objects. Fibers which can be used include aramid fibers such as poly (phenylenediamine terephthalamide), graphite fibers, nylon fibers, glass fibers and the like. The bullet blocker may also be made of a fabric that is encased with small particulate materials suspended in a fluid which exhibit dilatant behavior when subjected to a bullet from a firearm. Many of these materials are commercially available from the Barrday Corp. of Charlotte, N.C.

Still, another type of bullet-blocker is made of a shaped ceramic material, and may be encased in metal and covered with high-tensile strength fabric. The high tensile strength fabric is placed in such a way relative to the discharge chamber of the firearm as to catch particles generated from a bullet explosion inside the firearm.

Throughout this application, various patents, applications, and publications are referenced by number. The disclosures of these documents in their entireties are hereby incorporated by reference into this specification in order to more fully describe the state of the art to which this invention pertains.

It is evident that many modifications, and variations of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the disclosure herein. It is intended that the metes and bounds of the present invention be determined by the appended claims rather than by the language of the above specification, and that all such alternatives, modifications, and variations which form a conjointly cooperative equivalent are intended to be included within the spirit and scope of these claims.

PARTS LIST

-   10 holster already owned -   14 belt loop in holster -   20 firearm -   50 bullet blocker -   60 insert -   62 insert straps -   66 internal pouch Kevlar insert -   68 insert ceramics -   70 insert covering -   72 strap on covering -   150 bullet-resistant pouch -   152 support straps on pouch -   154 Velcro for pouch straps -   158 tension straps for insert -   160 bullet-resistant insert -   162 tension straps for insert -   170 ceramics in Kevlar reinforcement for insert -   172 Kevlar reinforcement for bullet blocker for insert -   210 belly-band holster -   215 sleeve for belly-band holster -   220 strap for belly-band holster -   225 stitched corners for belly-band holster -   248 pouch for belly-band holster -   255 insert strap for belly-band holster -   260 opening for belly band -   270 belly band -   276 ceramics for insert for belly-band holster -   310 pocket holster -   338 tension straps sewn into pocket holster insert -   341 strap for pocket holster -   348 pocket holster insert -   360 bullet blocker for pocket holster -   370 ceramics in Kevlar reinforcement for insert -   372 Kevlar reinforcement for insert -   410 purse holster -   420 sleeve -   425 tension straps on outside of purse holster -   430 bullet blocker -   440 snap for purse holster -   445 Kevlar reinforcement for for purse holster pouch -   450 ceramics for Kevlar pouch for purse holster -   455 tension straps sewn into purse holster -   510 shooting range case -   540 bullet resistant pouch -   550 bullet blocker for shooting range case -   555 tension strap for shooting range case -   560 Kevlar insert for shooting range case -   565 ceramics for Kevlar insert for shooting range case -   650 small spheres of hardened material -   660 bullet-resistant material -   710 bullet blocker (hardened ceramic material) -   720 bullet blocker (hardened ceramic material) -   730 bullet blocker (steel) -   735 bullet blocker (steel) -   750 1^(st) bullet blocker -   755 2^(nd) bullet blocker -   760 1^(st) bullet blocker -   765 2^(nd) bullet blocker -   810 bullet blocker -   820 multiple layers of bullet blocker material -   824 ceramics sewn into bullet blocker -   828 multiple layers covering ceramics -   910 bullet blocker -   915 Kevlar top layer -   920 multiple layers of bullet blocker material -   925 sewn pocket -   928 ceramic ball -   950 bullet blocker -   954 stitching -   960 ceramic inside pocket -   965 Kevlar layers -   970 bullet blocker -   972 ceramic material wrapped in bullet blocker material -   975 multiple layers of bullet blocker material 

1. A holster for carrying a pistol or handgun, said holster including a bullet blocker positioned next to a discharge chamber of the pistol or handgun when said pistol or handgun is positioned in said holster, the bullet blocker having sufficient strength to absorb and contain an inadvertent discharge of said single bullet and any bullet particles from said pistol or handgun when said pistol or handgun accidently discharges and said bullet blocker; whereby said bullet blocker is in tension relative to said inadvertent discharge of said single bullet and any bullet particles when said inadvertent discharge of said single bullet and any bullet particles strike said bullet blocker.
 2. The holster of claim 1, wherein said bullet blocker is positioned in a pouch.
 3. A holster for carrying a pistol or handgun, said holster including a bullet blocker positioned next to a discharge chamber of the pistol or handgun when said pistol or handgun is positioned in said holster, the bullet blocker having sufficient strength to absorb and contain an inadvertent discharge of said single bullet and any bullet particles from said pistol or handgun when said pistol or handgun accidently discharges and said bullet blocker; whereby said bullet blocker is made of a fabric that is impregnated with shear thickening fluid.
 4. A holster for carrying a pistol or handgun, said holster including a bullet blocker positioned next to a discharge chamber of the pistol or handgun when said pistol or handgun is positioned in said holster, the bullet blocker having sufficient strength to absorb and contain an inadvertent discharge of said single bullet and any bullet particles from said pistol or handgun when said pistol or handgun accidently discharges and said bullet blocker; whereby said bullet blocker is made of a fabric that is encased with small particulate materials suspended in a fluid which exhibit dilatant behavior when subjected to a bullet from said pistol or handgun.
 5. The holster of claim 4, wherein the small particulate materials are a ceramic material.
 6. A holster for carrying a pistol or handgun, said holster including a bullet blocker positioned next to a discharge chamber of the pistol or handgun when said pistol or handgun is positioned in said holster, the bullet blocker having sufficient strength to absorb and contain an inadvertent discharge of said single bullet and any bullet particles from said pistol or handgun when said pistol or handgun accidently discharges and said bullet blocker; whereby said bullet blocker is made of hardened particles that absorb the energy of said inadvertent discharge of said single bullet and any bullet particles from said pistol or handgun.
 7. The holster of claim 6, wherein the hardened particles are a ceramic material.
 8. A holster for carrying a pistol or handgun, said holster including a bullet blocker positioned next to a discharge chamber of the pistol or handgun when said pistol or handgun is positioned in said holster, the bullet blocker having sufficient strength to absorb and contain an inadvertent discharge of said single bullet and any bullet particles from said pistol or handgun when said pistol or handgun accidently discharges and said bullet blocker; whereby the bullet-blocker is made of a shaped material that is of sufficient hardness to deflect said single bullet and any bullet particles from said pistol or handgun.
 9. The holster of claim 8, wherein the shaped material is a ceramic.
 10. The holster of claim 8, wherein the bullet-blocker is made of a hardened material disposed in a pouch made of bullet-resistant material.
 11. The holster of claim 10, wherein the hardened material is a ceramic.
 12. A pouch that is compatible with a holster, the holster being used to carry a pistol or handgun, said pistol or handgun having a discharge chamber, said pouch comprising: a. a bullet blocker positioned in the pouch abutting the discharge chamber of the pistol or handgun, the bullet blocker either alone, in combination with a bullet-resistant fabric, or the bullet-resistant fabric acting alone having sufficient strength to absorb and contain an inadvertent discharge of a single bullet and any bullet particles from said pistol or handgun when said pistol or handgun accidently discharges; and b. means for secured said bullet blocker to said holster, said attaching means being used to secure the bullet blocker to the end of the holster abutting the discharge chamber of the firearm; and whereby said bullet blocker is in tension relative to said inadvertent discharge of said single bullet and any bullet particles when said inadvertent discharge of said single bullet and any bullet particles strike said bullet blocker.
 13. A pouch that is compatible with a holster, the holster being used to carry a pistol or handgun, said pistol or handgun having a discharge chamber, said pouch comprising: a. a bullet blocker positioned in the pouch abutting the discharge chamber of the pistol or handgun, the bullet blocker either alone, in combination with a bullet-resistant fabric, or the bullet-resistant fabric acting alone having sufficient strength to absorb and contain an inadvertent discharge of a single bullet and any bullet particles from said pistol or handgun when said pistol or handgun accidently discharges; and b. means for secured said bullet blocker to said holster, said attaching means being used to secure the bullet blocker to the end of the holster abutting the discharge chamber of the firearm; and whereby said bullet blocker is made of a fabric that is impregnated with shear thickening fluid.
 14. A pouch that is compatible with a holster, the holster being used to carry a pistol or handgun, said pistol or handgun having a discharge chamber, said pouch comprising: a. a bullet blocker positioned in the pouch abutting the discharge chamber of the pistol or handgun, the bullet blocker either alone, in combination with a bullet-resistant fabric, or the bullet-resistant fabric acting alone having sufficient strength to absorb and contain an inadvertent discharge of a single bullet and any bullet particles from said pistol or handgun when said pistol or handgun accidently discharges; and b. means for secured said bullet blocker to said holster, said attaching means being used to secure the bullet blocker to the end of the holster abutting the discharge chamber of the firearm; and whereby said bullet blocker is made of a fabric that is encased with small particulate materials suspended in a fluid which exhibit dilatant behavior when subjected to a bullet from said pistol or handgun.
 15. The pouch of claim 14, wherein the small particulate materials are a ceramic material.
 16. A pouch that is compatible with a holster, the holster being used to carry a pistol or handgun, said pistol or handgun having a discharge chamber, said pouch comprising: a. a bullet blocker positioned in the pouch abutting the discharge chamber of the pistol or handgun, the bullet blocker either alone, in combination with a bullet-resistant fabric, or the bullet-resistant fabric acting alone having sufficient strength to absorb and contain an inadvertent discharge of a single bullet and any bullet particles from said pistol or handgun when said pistol or handgun accidently discharges; and b. means for secured said bullet blocker to said holster, said attaching means being used to secure the bullet blocker to the end of the holster abutting the discharge chamber of the firearm; and whereby said bullet blocker is made of hardened particles that absorb the energy of said inadvertent discharge of said single bullet and any bullet particles from said pistol or handgun.
 17. The pouch of claim 16, wherein the hardened particles are a ceramic material.
 18. A pouch that is compatible with a holster, the holster being used to carry a pistol or handgun, said pistol or handgun having a discharge chamber, said pouch comprising: a. a bullet blocker positioned in the pouch abutting the discharge chamber of the pistol or handgun, the bullet blocker either alone, in combination with a bullet-resistant fabric, or the bullet-resistant fabric acting alone having sufficient strength to absorb and contain an inadvertent discharge of a single bullet and any bullet particles from said pistol or handgun when said pistol or handgun accidently discharges; and b. means for secured said bullet blocker to said holster, said attaching means being used to secure the bullet blocker to the end of the holster abutting the discharge chamber of the firearm; and whereby the bullet-blocker is made of a shaped material that is of sufficient hardness to deflect said single bullet and any bullet particles from said pistol or handgun.
 19. The pouch of claim 18, wherein the shaped material is a ceramic.
 20. The pouch of claim 18, wherein the bullet-blocker is made of a hardened material disposed in a pouch made of bullet-resistant material.
 21. The pouch of claim 20, wherein the hardened material is a ceramic.
 22. A holster for carrying a firearm about a waist strap of a wearer, said firearm having a discharge chamber, said holster comprising: a. a sleeve for holding said firearm, said sleeve including an opening enabling a waist strap to pass therethrough, said sleeve abutting the discharge chamber of said firearm when said holster is in use; and b. a bullet blocker positioned in said sleeve abutting said discharge chamber of said firearm, said bullet blocker either alone, in combination with a bullet-resistant fabric of said pocket holster, or a bullet-resistant fabric of said pocket holster acting alone having sufficient strength to absorb and contain an inadvertent discharge of a single bullet and any bullet particles from said single bullet from said firearm from escaping the sleeve of said holster when said firearm is disposed in said holster.
 23. The holster of claim 22, wherein the bullet blocker is made of a bullet-resistant resin.
 24. The holster of claim 22, further comprising a pouch that is affixable to the sleeve abutting said discharge chamber of said firearm, said firearm carrying device being in a “safe” condition relative to the inadvertent discharge of a single bullet and bullet particles when the pouch is attached to the sleeve abutting the discharge chamber of the firearm, the firearm carrying device being in an “unsafe” condition relative to the inadvertent discharge of a single bullet and bullet particles when the pouch is unattached to the sleeve.
 25. The holster of claim 22, wherein the bullet blocker is made of a fabric that is impregnated with shear thickening fluid.
 26. The holster of claim 22, wherein the bullet blocker is encased with small particulate materials suspended in a fluid which exhibit dilatant behavior when subjected to a bullet from a firearm.
 27. The holster of claim 22, wherein the bullet blocker is made of hardened particles held together by an adhesive or an epoxy-like compound, or sewn into a pouch made of bullet-proof material. 